Earlier this week I was very challenged when I read the following entry on prayer written by my dear sister in Christ, Asia. I am excited to share it with you for this week's new entry and I hope you will also be challenged to spend more time in prayer.
I remember when I was in high school, I was challenged to get up early in the morning to pray. I decided that around 5:30am, I would get up and pray to God. I had my prayer journal of requests from other people and I would start praying for them. Before I knew it, I saw prayers being answered and I loved spending time with God. There was a delight that grew in me to spend time with God in prayer and reading the bible. I loved that I could communicate with a God I was once separated from because of my sin.
This past week in a small group, everyone was asked, "What do you think you will be remembered by once you're gone?" I thought once I am gone, I want to be remember as a "praying woman of God." I love to pray for others, there is nothing like being before the Father and praying. I do pray that if I ever have a family, they will see my heart for prayer and not only them but others who know me.
I would encourage everyone to spend more time with God in prayer. Getting to know Him is the most amazing thing. Our time in prayer is where we can be honest, offer praise, confess, interceed, offer supplication, and pray for the world around us and pray for those close to us.
Bible Verses:
Psalm 73:28 (New King James Version)
28 But it is good for me to draw near to God;
I have put my trust in the Lord GOD,
That I may declare all Your works.
Hebrews 10:22 (New King James Version)
22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
Job 8:5-6 (New King James Version)
5 If you would earnestly seek God
And make your supplication to the Almighty
6 If you were pure and upright,
Surely now He would awake for you,
And prosper your rightful dwelling place.
Quote:
Intercessory prayer is the sweetest prayer God ever hears.... The more your prayer is like Christ's, the sweeter it will be.... Intercessory prayer exceedingly prevails. What wonders it has wrought! It has stopped plagues,...healed diseases,...raised the dead.... There is nothing that intercessory prayer cannot do. Believer, you have a mighty engine in your hand - use it well, use it constantly, use it now with faith, and you shall surely prevail.... Never give up anyone for spiritually dead until they are dead naturally...
Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Asia shares about her life and vibrant heart for God at A Lady in the Making.
Showing posts with label prayer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label prayer. Show all posts
14 October 2010
12 September 2010
Humility and Humiliation
Christ firstly speaks of the person who "shall exalt himself." The word exalt, Hupsoo, is related to the word altitude and has the idea of height. According to Strongs, to exalt is to lift up to the heights. The man or woman who lifts up themselves is filled with pride. They are guilty of self-exaltation. They promote themselves and promotes their own agenda. They are full of their own importance. Two prime examples from the Word are Satan and Nebuchadnezzar.
Lets take a quick look at the story of Satan's fall in Isaiah 14:12-15. Notice all the "I will’s"?
I will ascend into heaven… (vs.13)
I will exalt my throne… (vs.13)
I will sit also upon the mount… (vs.13)
I will ascend above the heights… (vs.14)
I will be like the most High." (vs.14)
I will exalt my throne… (vs.13)
I will sit also upon the mount… (vs.13)
I will ascend above the heights… (vs.14)
I will be like the most High." (vs.14)
In his pride, he exalted himself. Only what he wanted was important. Nothing else mattered.
Another example is Nebuchadnezzar. He walks in his palace in Babylon and says, "Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty?" (Daniel 4:30). Again, his thoughts are totally filled with himself and his accomplishments.
These may be extreme examples, allowing us to remove ourselves from the picture saying, "I do not have that kind of pride; I know that all glory belongs to the Lord." In the New Testament letters Paul brings it home when describing his fellow labourers, "For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's" (Philippians 2:21). Thankfully, he does give Timothy as an exception so their is hope yet can we think ourselves 'naturally' better than the general rule of the apostolic age? If most of Paul's companions selfishly sought their own good above the cause of Jesus Christ, how can we think ourselves any better. Look at the greed, selfishness and pride of the modern church - We speak against others in order to exalt ourselves: we respond in anger when someone else is given an honor we think we should have received: we compare, criticize and contend with others who are also serving the Lord: we are quick to judge others yet glacially slow in judging ourselves. It is time to judge the pride in our own hearts.
In the next part of the this verse Jesus teaches us that the man who exalts himself will be abased. The word abase, Tapeinoo, comes from the root word, Tapeinos (commonly translated as base) meaning not rising far from the ground. To abase means to lower or bring down to the bottom. Colloquially we use the word humiliation. The second half of the verse will use the word humility but what's the difference?
Humility is self-abasement and it is primarily done before God. Humiliation is divine-abasement and it is done before all. One who is humiliated suffers what many Asian cultures refer to as losing face - a serious situation indeed. He is shamed before all.It is important to note that humiliation is a direct result of haughtiness. He is brought down to the ground because he lifted himself up. Other scriptures support this dichotomy:
Cast abroad the rage of thy wrath: and behold every one that is proud, and abase him. (Job 40:11)
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. (Proverbs 16:18)
God's wisdom is so different to that of the world's. If we exalt ourselves, God will bring us down. Self-promotion is not God’s way and those exalting themselves cannot accomplish His will.
In the second contrasting section of this verse, Jesus talks about the man "that shall humble himself." Humility is found first of all in the way we think of ourselves and others. A humble man thinks of God and others first and himself last. He carries the burdens of others but he does not expect anyone else to carry his burden (Galatians 6:2,5). He expects not to be ministered unto, but to minister to others (Matthew 20:28) The man who humbles himself "shall be exalted". Self-exaltation comes before divine-abasement. But divine-exaltation is the result of self-abasement. This is further supported in other scriptural passages;
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility. (Proverbs 15:33)
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. (James 4:10)
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility. (Proverbs 15:33)
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. (James 4:10)
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time (1Peter 5:6)
What glory to be exalted by God! Why would you seek the glory and praise of man when you can have the eternal glory of God? What is a moment of glory in this world compared to the riches available in Christ? Biblical humility is the opposite of selfishness; it is selflessness. It is not a hatred or embarrassment of self, which are both still focused on self. It is a removing of self from conscious thought. It is a life so lost in pleasing God that there is no time and no need to please self. Pleasing God brings full satisfaction beyond anything this selfish world can offer. Christian humility is a losing of self in God and in others. God and His will is our focus. This is the servant’s heart. This is the disciple’s calling.
"He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30).
Please pray with me that this may ever be so in our lives.
I hope this has been of some encouragement to you and has wet your appetite to seek out God's Word for all that pertains unto life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3).
Looking forward to our lovely blushing bride-to-be's post next week :)
08 August 2010
Who is God?
“There is none holy as the LORD” (1 Sam. 2:2).
To worship God properly we must know something about Him. True worship must be based on a deep heartfelt appreciation of who God is, what He has done for us, and what He has promised to do: it must be based on truth rather than the inconsistency of our feelings. “They that worship [God] must worship Him … in truth” (John 4:24). Today I just wanted to impress upon you, mainly through scripture verses, one characteristic of God, His holiness. This understanding brings the sinner into a relationship with God that is founded on Him: His character, His work, His promises.
“Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of His, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holiness” (Psa. 30:4).
“He sent redemption unto His people: He hath commanded His covenant for ever: holy and reverend is His name” (Psa. 111:9).
“In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and His train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims … and one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of His glory” (Isaiah 6:1-3).
The declaration of the holiness of God will ring out in heaven throughout eternity: “And the four beasts … rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come” (Rev. 4:8).
What then do we do with this information? How should it change our perceptions, our actions and our attitude? Go back to Isaiah, hearing the seraphim proclaim in rapturous chorus, “Holy, Holy, Holy”. What was Isaiah’s response to this truth?
“Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts” (Isaiah 6:5).
However holy Isaiah may have been in comparison to the other Israelites, in the presence of God and His holiness Isaiah became thoroughly aware of his own utter unholiness. So many people, Christian and non-Christian alike, say they are a “good person” and therefore do not deserve the judgement of God which culminates in Hell. If only we would compare ourselves to Him, then we would gain a more realistic assessment of our own sinfulness and see how fitting His judgement is.
Understanding our sinfulness in the eyes of God is not simply a self deprecating experience that ends in despair. No, no! It leads to joy indescribable, appreciation unable to be uttered and a liberty unequalled. In Christ we are no longer held held under the bondage of our sin: we are no longer separated from our Creator. Through the saving work on Jesus Christ on the Cross the relationship God always wanted for us to have with Him is established. When He returns this relationship shall be fully consummated and we shall be as He sees us.
I hope this short study on the holiness of God has been of some encouragement to you. Doing a word study on holiness is a good place to start should you wish to understand this topic in further depth.
God bless,
Laura
PS: On a personal note let me publicly congratulate my dear sister Taliah on the birth of her second child; Elijah James. We are all praying for you and your family (hubby Shane and daughter Abigail) as you welcome this new addition into your homes and lives.
To worship God properly we must know something about Him. True worship must be based on a deep heartfelt appreciation of who God is, what He has done for us, and what He has promised to do: it must be based on truth rather than the inconsistency of our feelings. “They that worship [God] must worship Him … in truth” (John 4:24). Today I just wanted to impress upon you, mainly through scripture verses, one characteristic of God, His holiness. This understanding brings the sinner into a relationship with God that is founded on Him: His character, His work, His promises.
“Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of His, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holiness” (Psa. 30:4).
“He sent redemption unto His people: He hath commanded His covenant for ever: holy and reverend is His name” (Psa. 111:9).
“In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and His train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims … and one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of His glory” (Isaiah 6:1-3).
The declaration of the holiness of God will ring out in heaven throughout eternity: “And the four beasts … rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come” (Rev. 4:8).
Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning let songs arise to Thee!
Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty—
God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!
Holy, holy, holy! all Thy saints adore Thee,
Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea,
Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee,
Which were, and art, and evermore shalt be!
Early in the morning let songs arise to Thee!
Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty—
God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!
Holy, holy, holy! all Thy saints adore Thee,
Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea,
Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee,
Which were, and art, and evermore shalt be!
R. Heber
What then do we do with this information? How should it change our perceptions, our actions and our attitude? Go back to Isaiah, hearing the seraphim proclaim in rapturous chorus, “Holy, Holy, Holy”. What was Isaiah’s response to this truth?
“Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts” (Isaiah 6:5).
However holy Isaiah may have been in comparison to the other Israelites, in the presence of God and His holiness Isaiah became thoroughly aware of his own utter unholiness. So many people, Christian and non-Christian alike, say they are a “good person” and therefore do not deserve the judgement of God which culminates in Hell. If only we would compare ourselves to Him, then we would gain a more realistic assessment of our own sinfulness and see how fitting His judgement is.
Understanding our sinfulness in the eyes of God is not simply a self deprecating experience that ends in despair. No, no! It leads to joy indescribable, appreciation unable to be uttered and a liberty unequalled. In Christ we are no longer held held under the bondage of our sin: we are no longer separated from our Creator. Through the saving work on Jesus Christ on the Cross the relationship God always wanted for us to have with Him is established. When He returns this relationship shall be fully consummated and we shall be as He sees us.
I hope this short study on the holiness of God has been of some encouragement to you. Doing a word study on holiness is a good place to start should you wish to understand this topic in further depth.
God bless,
Laura
PS: On a personal note let me publicly congratulate my dear sister Taliah on the birth of her second child; Elijah James. We are all praying for you and your family (hubby Shane and daughter Abigail) as you welcome this new addition into your homes and lives.
07 March 2010
The Trust of a Husband
Proverbs 31:11 “The heart of her husband safely trusts her; So he will have no lack of gain.”
It is a sad testament to where we are as the Body of Christ that this cannot be said of most husbands today. Many husbands cannot say they unreservedly trust their wives (conversely, neither can wives admit to trusting their husbands). Being able to fully trust your marriage partner is one of the fundamental pillars of a strong God-honoring marriage. So what is trust and how can we foster trust in our marriage and grow more like the exemplary Christian woman of Proverbs 31?
What is trust?
The word translated here as "trust" is batach. Out of the 120 times it is found in the Old Testament more than one hundred times it is translated as trust. It is a verb meaning, "to trust, to have confidence in, and to be secure in." Verse 11 concludes with the claims that, "he shall have no need of gain/spoil." The word "spoil" means "plunder or booty." It is usually used of treasures obtained by the victorious soldiers through war. By application husbands that trust their wives do not need to always be worried about material gain because their wives are not a liability. She manages the home so well and she is so industrious and productive that her efforts result in great gain and perhaps even profit. It is disturbing to see wives that through their slothfulness and carelessness cause their family to suffer. They may spend money without consideration or waste countless hours each week engaged in unproductive activities such as watching television. How can her husband safely trust in her if he is constantly worried about what she is or is not doing? How can he have confidence in her ability to keep the home while he is at work? (Please do not think that I am putting responsibility for all wastefulness at the feet of wives. Irresponsible stewardship of time and money is a serious problem in our society that effects men, women and children).
How do we foster trust?
Just as I wrote in the previous post on Proverbs; "The application to our life of these verses in our characters is that we first commit this work to God." Similarly, I believe that the way towards change can be summarised in Recognise, Rejoice and Reform, yet instead of repeating myself here I wanted to give you an example;
Having a clean and organised house is something that I believe is very important in the functioning of a happy and productive home. Clutter and mess seem to increase the tension in our home: we just aren't as kind or considerate towards each other when everything is all over the place. As a stay at home wife and mother it is primarily my job to keep the house and my husband trusts that during the day I am working towards just that. I have to admit that this has been difficult. My own mother kept a beautiful home, in fact she still does, yet she never really taught me HOW she did it. This is were A Virtuous Woman and the advice of Melissa Ringstaff have been so wonderful. How do you clean out your refrigerator? How often do you do it? What household products can you use to clean it effectively and efficiently? You may know this, but I didn't. The Divine Sonnets of John Donne, the diary of Dorothy Wordsworth, the letters of Rachael Henning... I knew all about these but cleaning the fridge - I was a bit in the dark. Melissa Ringstaff has written "The Homemaker's Journal" (one of many books on my wish list) which is full of practical instruction for the Keeper at Home. To tie you over until you can buy the print or ebook version, she has also written a number of short, point form, articles on how to clean and how often to do it. Click the relevant title below to download the pdf:
I pray that this has been useful to you and I look forward to your comments and thoughts
God bless,
Laura
It is a sad testament to where we are as the Body of Christ that this cannot be said of most husbands today. Many husbands cannot say they unreservedly trust their wives (conversely, neither can wives admit to trusting their husbands). Being able to fully trust your marriage partner is one of the fundamental pillars of a strong God-honoring marriage. So what is trust and how can we foster trust in our marriage and grow more like the exemplary Christian woman of Proverbs 31?
What is trust?
The word translated here as "trust" is batach. Out of the 120 times it is found in the Old Testament more than one hundred times it is translated as trust. It is a verb meaning, "to trust, to have confidence in, and to be secure in." Verse 11 concludes with the claims that, "he shall have no need of gain/spoil." The word "spoil" means "plunder or booty." It is usually used of treasures obtained by the victorious soldiers through war. By application husbands that trust their wives do not need to always be worried about material gain because their wives are not a liability. She manages the home so well and she is so industrious and productive that her efforts result in great gain and perhaps even profit. It is disturbing to see wives that through their slothfulness and carelessness cause their family to suffer. They may spend money without consideration or waste countless hours each week engaged in unproductive activities such as watching television. How can her husband safely trust in her if he is constantly worried about what she is or is not doing? How can he have confidence in her ability to keep the home while he is at work? (Please do not think that I am putting responsibility for all wastefulness at the feet of wives. Irresponsible stewardship of time and money is a serious problem in our society that effects men, women and children).
How do we foster trust?
Just as I wrote in the previous post on Proverbs; "The application to our life of these verses in our characters is that we first commit this work to God." Similarly, I believe that the way towards change can be summarised in Recognise, Rejoice and Reform, yet instead of repeating myself here I wanted to give you an example;
- Cleaning the Kitchen
- Cleaning the Refrigerator
- Cleaning the Stove
- Mealtime Cleanup
- Caring for the Bedroom
- Making the Bed
- Cleaning the Bathroom
I pray that this has been useful to you and I look forward to your comments and thoughts
God bless,
Laura
26 February 2010
Colossians 1:9-14
I was glad to see Meredith’s post from last week was on prayer –she shared with us many scriptures which encourage us to pray and assure us of God’s hearing of our prayers. In my last posting I looked at Colossians 1:1-14, and I will be taking the time now to specifically look at the prayer in this section. I would like to look at at what scripture has to say about each of the things Paul includes in his prayer for the Colossians.
As I have already shared, Paul here shows us his commitment to prayer. Since the time he hears of a group of saints he prays for them. He encourages the subjects of his prayer by sharing with them what he is praying for, and remembers them long after he first hears of them.
To know God’s will is of the uttermost importance. It is vain to try to serve God without knowing what He desires of us.
This knowledge of God’s will is not a mystical knowledge, Paul clearly speaks against this in chapter 2. Nor is it simply intellectual, for the unbeliever, nominal Christian and Satan for that manner can believe many true things about God which do not result in salvation. The knowledge Paul points to is powerful in the believer’s life to produce the fruits given in verse 10. ‘It results from fellowship with God and leads to deeper fellowship. Hence, this clear knowledge is heart-transforming and life-renewing’ (W. Hendriksen on Colossians).
The knowledge of God’s will must be in spiritual wisdom and understanding. ‘Such wisdom is the ability to use the best means to reach the highest goal, a life to God’s glory. It amounts to understanding that is at once spiritual and practical’ (W. Hendriksen on Colossians).
A beautiful description of this wisdom is found in James.
This phrase ‘walk in a manner worthy of the Lord’ appears several times in the New Testament. Each time it is accompanied by some of the attributes which the author believes are fitting this worthy life.
These scriptures give us an excellent model for the godly Christian life. May we strive to accomplish these things in our own lives by God’s grace.
‘That this God-glorifying conduct will actually be the result of being filled with clear knowledge of His will is easy to see, for the more God’s children know Him, the more they will also love Him; and the more they love Him, the more they will also wish to obey Him in though, word and deed’ (W. Hendriksen on Colossians).
The gospel was said to be ‘constantly bearing fruit and increasing’ in Colossians 1:6 in the Colossian believers and in all the world. How does this fruit in good works come about?
The starting point and the result of a God-pleasing life is knowledge of God.
To know God strengthens a believer in whatever circumstances he may find himself.
As I shared last time, this image of power and might is given more detail in Ephesians.
Steadfastness and patience are here referred to as the by-products of the strength and power which God gives His children, as well as growing in the knowledge of Him. I know that I need the God to grow me in this area of my life! How do we respond to affliction, suffering, persecution, setbacks? Do we respond in anger, passion, with a quick tongue? We should not be characterized by these things. Thankfully this steadfastness and patience is God-given.
Let us eagerly pursue these things!
‘Due to strength imparted by God, believers are able, even in the midst of tribulation, to give thanks with joy and to rejoice with thanksgiving. It is to the Father that this thanks is given, for it was He who through His beloved Son freely gives us all things’ (W. Hendriksen on Colossians).
God has done great things.
When we look at Paul’s prayer we see what is possible in the life of a believer. We see the glorious riches which are available to all who call on the name of the Lord. I hope that you can reflect on your own life in light of this example of a God-honouring believer. I know that I fall short in every area, but praise God that He can work these things in me. Let us seek to become more like this example, for we will be becoming more like Christ.
When we look at this as an example of prayer it shows us how high we can aim when we lift our fellow believers to the Lord in prayer. We can ask for these things, because God’s might is indeed glorious and can accomplish these things. Let us give thanks to the Father for what He has done and what He can do!
God bless, Taliah.
vs. 9 For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may…
As I have already shared, Paul here shows us his commitment to prayer. Since the time he hears of a group of saints he prays for them. He encourages the subjects of his prayer by sharing with them what he is praying for, and remembers them long after he first hears of them.
vs. 9 …be filled with the knowledge of His will…
To know God’s will is of the uttermost importance. It is vain to try to serve God without knowing what He desires of us.
Romans 12
2And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
Acts 22
10"And I said, 'What shall I do, Lord?' And the Lord said to me, 'Get up and go on into Damascus, and there you will be told of all that has been appointed for you to do.'
This knowledge of God’s will is not a mystical knowledge, Paul clearly speaks against this in chapter 2. Nor is it simply intellectual, for the unbeliever, nominal Christian and Satan for that manner can believe many true things about God which do not result in salvation. The knowledge Paul points to is powerful in the believer’s life to produce the fruits given in verse 10. ‘It results from fellowship with God and leads to deeper fellowship. Hence, this clear knowledge is heart-transforming and life-renewing’ (W. Hendriksen on Colossians).
Proverbs 1
7The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge;
Fools despise wisdom and instruction.
vs. 9… in all spiritual wisdom and understanding…
The knowledge of God’s will must be in spiritual wisdom and understanding. ‘Such wisdom is the ability to use the best means to reach the highest goal, a life to God’s glory. It amounts to understanding that is at once spiritual and practical’ (W. Hendriksen on Colossians).
A beautiful description of this wisdom is found in James.
James 3
17But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy.
vs. 10 …so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects …
This phrase ‘walk in a manner worthy of the Lord’ appears several times in the New Testament. Each time it is accompanied by some of the attributes which the author believes are fitting this worthy life.
Ephesians 4
1Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called,
2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love,
3being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Philippians 1
27Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
28in no way alarmed by your opponents--which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God.
1 Thessalonians 2
10You are witnesses, and so is God, how devoutly and uprightly and blamelessly we behaved toward you believers;
11just as you know how we were exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father would his own children,
12so that you would walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.
These scriptures give us an excellent model for the godly Christian life. May we strive to accomplish these things in our own lives by God’s grace.
‘That this God-glorifying conduct will actually be the result of being filled with clear knowledge of His will is easy to see, for the more God’s children know Him, the more they will also love Him; and the more they love Him, the more they will also wish to obey Him in though, word and deed’ (W. Hendriksen on Colossians).
1 Corinthians 10
31Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
vs. 10 …bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God…
The gospel was said to be ‘constantly bearing fruit and increasing’ in Colossians 1:6 in the Colossian believers and in all the world. How does this fruit in good works come about?
Ephesians 2
8For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
9not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
10For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
The starting point and the result of a God-pleasing life is knowledge of God.
Proverbs 4
8But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn,
That shines brighter and brighter until the full day.
vs. 11 …strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might…
To know God strengthens a believer in whatever circumstances he may find himself.
Philippians 4
11Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.
12I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.
13I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
As I shared last time, this image of power and might is given more detail in Ephesians.
Ephesians 1
19and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might
20which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places,
21far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.
22And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church,
23which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.
vs. 11 … for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience…
Steadfastness and patience are here referred to as the by-products of the strength and power which God gives His children, as well as growing in the knowledge of Him. I know that I need the God to grow me in this area of my life! How do we respond to affliction, suffering, persecution, setbacks? Do we respond in anger, passion, with a quick tongue? We should not be characterized by these things. Thankfully this steadfastness and patience is God-given.
Romans 15
5Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus,
Galatians 5
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
23gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Let us eagerly pursue these things!
vs. 11-14 …joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
‘Due to strength imparted by God, believers are able, even in the midst of tribulation, to give thanks with joy and to rejoice with thanksgiving. It is to the Father that this thanks is given, for it was He who through His beloved Son freely gives us all things’ (W. Hendriksen on Colossians).
God has done great things.
When we look at Paul’s prayer we see what is possible in the life of a believer. We see the glorious riches which are available to all who call on the name of the Lord. I hope that you can reflect on your own life in light of this example of a God-honouring believer. I know that I fall short in every area, but praise God that He can work these things in me. Let us seek to become more like this example, for we will be becoming more like Christ.
When we look at this as an example of prayer it shows us how high we can aim when we lift our fellow believers to the Lord in prayer. We can ask for these things, because God’s might is indeed glorious and can accomplish these things. Let us give thanks to the Father for what He has done and what He can do!
God bless, Taliah.
21 February 2010
Thoughts on Prayer
I feel that prayer is among the most neglected areas of my spiritual walk so I have been eager to study about the purpose of communication with God through prayer so I may have a better understanding of the importance of this spiritual practice. I pray when I need wisdom, direction, and guidance and I pray when I have a specific request to bring before the Lord, (whether it is relating to me personally or a friend or family member), but I have much room for improvement in regard to a daily, even hourly dialogue with the Lord. Since I certainly don't have much wisdom to share in this area, this study is primarily a collection of the thoughts, scriptures, and quotes I have accumulated through my research on this subject.
God has called us into a relationship with Himself. Relationships require communication. Prayer is communication between a holy God and a beloved you and me. Throughout God's Word we're taught the significance and role of prayer. Stories about the impact of prayer will inspire you to pray more. "In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for Me in earnest, you will find Me when you seek Me” (Jeremiah 29:12,13).
God wants to be in relationship with us. And He knows we need what He can give. Through prayer, we experience life-transforming, life-renewing intimacy with the Creator of the universe. God reveals Himself to us through prayer. "Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God. May Your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing" (Psalm 143:10). We learn more and more about His character and how His perfect will is working itself out in our own life. Deepening our understanding of God also deepens our faith and desire to worship.
God invites us to bring our burdens and needs to Him in prayer. “Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
We have a Heavenly Father who is more than able to bring victory to any challenge we face. God is a spiritual and physical healer. Like any healthy relationship, we must keep a line of communication open.
God responds to the prayers of His people. “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results” (James 5:16). It is through prayer, that His work is accomplished on earth. The apostle Paul continually asked for prayer in his missionary endeavors and saw prayer as vital to his success.
God imparts wisdom and understanding through prayer. “If you need wisdom—if you want to know what God wants you to do—ask Him, and He will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking” (James 1:5). As we become increasingly aware of our limitations, we can rest in the knowledge that our God is omniscient. Availing ourselves of God’s counsel is a blessing of prayer.
God exercises His authority and ability to do the impossible through the prayers of His people. “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer” (Matthew 21:22). Our hearts pound with great confidence as we take mighty tasks to our exceedingly mighty Lord.
God extends His power to us through prayer so that we may resist temptation. “Keep alert and pray. Otherwise temptation will overpower you. For though the spirit is willing enough, the body is weak!” (Matthew 26:41) With prayer, you always have a proven shield of protection available. Just say the word.
-Excerpts from "Why We Pray" at wycliffe.org
"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." 1 John 5:14
"The Lord emboldens us to come to God in all circumstances. Through Him our petitions are accepted of God. The matter of our prayer must be agreeable to the declared will of God." - Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 John 5:14
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
"As a remedy against perplexing care, constant prayer is recommended. Not only stated times for prayer, but in every thing by prayer. We must join thanksgivings with prayers and supplications; not only seek supplies of good, but own the mercies we have received. God needs not to be told our wants or desires; he knows them better than we do; but he will have us show that we value the mercy, and feel our dependence on him. The peace of God, the comfortable sense of being reconciled to God, and having a part in his favour, and the hope of the heavenly blessedness, are a greater good than can be fully expressed. This peace will keep our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus; it will keep us from sinning under troubles, and from sinking under them; keep us calm and with inward satisfaction." -Matthew Henry's Commentary on Philippians 4:6-7
"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." Romans 8:26
I am challenged by these verses and thoughts and hope to implement what I have gleaned from this study.
God has called us into a relationship with Himself. Relationships require communication. Prayer is communication between a holy God and a beloved you and me. Throughout God's Word we're taught the significance and role of prayer. Stories about the impact of prayer will inspire you to pray more. "In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for Me in earnest, you will find Me when you seek Me” (Jeremiah 29:12,13).
God wants to be in relationship with us. And He knows we need what He can give. Through prayer, we experience life-transforming, life-renewing intimacy with the Creator of the universe. God reveals Himself to us through prayer. "Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God. May Your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing" (Psalm 143:10). We learn more and more about His character and how His perfect will is working itself out in our own life. Deepening our understanding of God also deepens our faith and desire to worship.
God invites us to bring our burdens and needs to Him in prayer. “Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
We have a Heavenly Father who is more than able to bring victory to any challenge we face. God is a spiritual and physical healer. Like any healthy relationship, we must keep a line of communication open.
God responds to the prayers of His people. “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results” (James 5:16). It is through prayer, that His work is accomplished on earth. The apostle Paul continually asked for prayer in his missionary endeavors and saw prayer as vital to his success.
God imparts wisdom and understanding through prayer. “If you need wisdom—if you want to know what God wants you to do—ask Him, and He will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking” (James 1:5). As we become increasingly aware of our limitations, we can rest in the knowledge that our God is omniscient. Availing ourselves of God’s counsel is a blessing of prayer.
God exercises His authority and ability to do the impossible through the prayers of His people. “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer” (Matthew 21:22). Our hearts pound with great confidence as we take mighty tasks to our exceedingly mighty Lord.
God extends His power to us through prayer so that we may resist temptation. “Keep alert and pray. Otherwise temptation will overpower you. For though the spirit is willing enough, the body is weak!” (Matthew 26:41) With prayer, you always have a proven shield of protection available. Just say the word.
-Excerpts from "Why We Pray" at wycliffe.org
"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." 1 John 5:14
"The Lord emboldens us to come to God in all circumstances. Through Him our petitions are accepted of God. The matter of our prayer must be agreeable to the declared will of God." - Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 John 5:14
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
"As a remedy against perplexing care, constant prayer is recommended. Not only stated times for prayer, but in every thing by prayer. We must join thanksgivings with prayers and supplications; not only seek supplies of good, but own the mercies we have received. God needs not to be told our wants or desires; he knows them better than we do; but he will have us show that we value the mercy, and feel our dependence on him. The peace of God, the comfortable sense of being reconciled to God, and having a part in his favour, and the hope of the heavenly blessedness, are a greater good than can be fully expressed. This peace will keep our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus; it will keep us from sinning under troubles, and from sinking under them; keep us calm and with inward satisfaction." -Matthew Henry's Commentary on Philippians 4:6-7
"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." Romans 8:26
I am challenged by these verses and thoughts and hope to implement what I have gleaned from this study.
06 February 2010
Words spoken in Haste
Proverbs 29:20, "Seest thou a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope of a fool than him." (KJV)
I realize that I did previously say that I was going to look at the virtuous woman passage of Proverbs 31 yet I have decided to change my mind at the last minute (not something terribly unusual for me) and write about something else. This issue has been impressed upon me heart for the last month - words spoken in haste.
What does it mean to speak in haste?
The Hebrew word that is translated hasty in Proverbs 29:20 is a verb meaning “to press or urge”. Furthermore hasty in words means to speak pressingly or with urgency. I can say that there have been times in my life when I have spoken too hastily; I have said “I love you” before I should; I have given advice based on feelings; and I have lashed out in anger, frustration and hurt. In my life the following words of Spurgeon ring only too true:
"Hasty words are but for a moment on the tongue, but they often lie for years on the conscience."
Why do we, Christians, speak in haste?
I believe that it primarily has to do with the flesh - we are saved by God through Jesus and are therefore positionally “seated with Him in Heavenly places, in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6) yet conditionally we still sin. God sees us positionally righteous (praise the Lord!) yet while on this earth we must contend with the flesh. Hasty words are an expression of the flesh and should be hateful to us.
Galatians 5:16-18 says "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and do not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh; for these are opposed to each other, to prevent you from doing what you would. But if you are led by the Spirit you are not under the law." (RSV)
So, how do we stop speaking in haste?
There are two things, the second which builds upon the first:
First is to be walk by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16). George Müller learned the secret of walking by the Spirit: meditate on the precious truths of the Word of God until your heart is happy in God, resting in his promises.
Secondly, James 1:19 says, "Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath." Being “slow to speak” is the exact opposite to speaking pressingly or with urgency. Practically speaking I believe its all about getting into the habit. Wait before you speak and consider the effects of what you are going to say. Then, if you don’t have anything to say that is constructive or edifying, don’t say anything at all!
Is this hard? Of course it is! Its war! We are warring against the flesh! Will you fail? Yes, you will fail, but don't loose heart, we have a faithful Lord who will not leave us or forsake us.
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6)
The most important thing is to keep your heart with all diligence... read the Word, delight and rest in His promises, pray that God would do the work, have the glory and impart to us the strength to be a James 1:19 Christian.
Proverbs 4:23, "Keep thy heart with all diligence: for out of it are the issues of life."
I realize that I did previously say that I was going to look at the virtuous woman passage of Proverbs 31 yet I have decided to change my mind at the last minute (not something terribly unusual for me) and write about something else. This issue has been impressed upon me heart for the last month - words spoken in haste.
What does it mean to speak in haste?
The Hebrew word that is translated hasty in Proverbs 29:20 is a verb meaning “to press or urge”. Furthermore hasty in words means to speak pressingly or with urgency. I can say that there have been times in my life when I have spoken too hastily; I have said “I love you” before I should; I have given advice based on feelings; and I have lashed out in anger, frustration and hurt. In my life the following words of Spurgeon ring only too true:
"Hasty words are but for a moment on the tongue, but they often lie for years on the conscience."
Why do we, Christians, speak in haste?
I believe that it primarily has to do with the flesh - we are saved by God through Jesus and are therefore positionally “seated with Him in Heavenly places, in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6) yet conditionally we still sin. God sees us positionally righteous (praise the Lord!) yet while on this earth we must contend with the flesh. Hasty words are an expression of the flesh and should be hateful to us.
Galatians 5:16-18 says "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and do not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh; for these are opposed to each other, to prevent you from doing what you would. But if you are led by the Spirit you are not under the law." (RSV)
So, how do we stop speaking in haste?
There are two things, the second which builds upon the first:
First is to be walk by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16). George Müller learned the secret of walking by the Spirit: meditate on the precious truths of the Word of God until your heart is happy in God, resting in his promises.
Secondly, James 1:19 says, "Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath." Being “slow to speak” is the exact opposite to speaking pressingly or with urgency. Practically speaking I believe its all about getting into the habit. Wait before you speak and consider the effects of what you are going to say. Then, if you don’t have anything to say that is constructive or edifying, don’t say anything at all!
Is this hard? Of course it is! Its war! We are warring against the flesh! Will you fail? Yes, you will fail, but don't loose heart, we have a faithful Lord who will not leave us or forsake us.
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6)
The most important thing is to keep your heart with all diligence... read the Word, delight and rest in His promises, pray that God would do the work, have the glory and impart to us the strength to be a James 1:19 Christian.
Proverbs 4:23, "Keep thy heart with all diligence: for out of it are the issues of life."
21 January 2010
Colossians 1:1-14
I want to share with you a few things from the book of Colossians, we will see how far the Lord takes me through but I hope to cover the book this year. The first section I will look at is chapter 1, verses 1 to 14, but first a little background.
This book was written by the apostle Paul when he was first imprisoned in Rome around 60-61AD, at the same time that he wrote to the Ephesians and to Philemon. Tychicus and Onesimus delivered this letter [Col 4:7-9]. Tychicus delivered Ephesians [Eph 6:21] and Onesimus delivered Philemon [Philem 10-12] so it is very possible that this was part of the same journey. The city of Colossae was decimated in an earthquake in 61AD and never rebuilt, so the letter would have been written and presumably delivered before this time. Colossae was situated in Phrygia and was under Roman rule. The gospel was first preached in this region by Paul and Silas with Timothy [Acts 15:40-16:6].
Now to look at the text:
This book was written by the apostle Paul when he was first imprisoned in Rome around 60-61AD, at the same time that he wrote to the Ephesians and to Philemon. Tychicus and Onesimus delivered this letter [Col 4:7-9]. Tychicus delivered Ephesians [Eph 6:21] and Onesimus delivered Philemon [Philem 10-12] so it is very possible that this was part of the same journey. The city of Colossae was decimated in an earthquake in 61AD and never rebuilt, so the letter would have been written and presumably delivered before this time. Colossae was situated in Phrygia and was under Roman rule. The gospel was first preached in this region by Paul and Silas with Timothy [Acts 15:40-16:6].
Now to look at the text:
Colossians 1
1Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father.
3We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 4since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have for all the saints; 5because of the hope laid up for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel 6which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is constantly bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard of it and understood the grace of God in truth; 7just as you learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow bond-servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf, 8and he also informed us of your love in the Spirit.
9For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. 13For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, 14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
A quick note on the greeting - both the author and receiver are referred to as being of Jesus Christ and in Christ (v. 1). Before he begins Paul establishes what he always seeks to emphasize – our standing in Christ.
Paul and Timothy thank God ever since they heard of the fruits which the Colossian believers are displaying. They direct this thanks to God, for He is the source and it is He by His Holy Spirit indwelling these believers that these fruits are being born [Gal 5:22-23]. When we see good fruit do we praise our Father who is the source?
What specifically were they thanking God for? Paul and Timothy had heard of their faith, their love and thanked God for the provision of their hope in heaven. Paul has put these three together elsewhere in his writings [e.g. 1 Cor 13:13]. We have a hope laid up… in heaven (v. 5) [for a beautiful description see 1 Pet 1:3-5], provided for us by God. These Colossian saints have faith in Christ, and exhibit love… for the all the saints (v. 4). What a beautiful thing to behold in a group of believers! And for these things God is to be praised.
The hope which they have is found in the gospel, here called the word of truth (v. 5). What a beautiful name! Paul comments on the pattern which follows the preaching of the word, and in doing so encourages the Colossian believers that what they have seen in their lives is evidence of God at work. The gospel is said to be constantly bearing fruit and increasing ever since it is heard … and understood (v. 6). This is a good passage to look to when we are considering our own walk with the Lord.
2 Corinthians 13 [NASB]
5Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you--unless indeed you fail the test?
We are called here to examine ourselves, and Colossians is providing a standard - constant and increasing fruit since the day we heard and understood this word of truth. Christians sin, and are called to repent.
1 John 1
3We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 4since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have for all the saints; 5because of the hope laid up for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel 6which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is constantly bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard of it and understood the grace of God in truth; 7just as you learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow bond-servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf, 8and he also informed us of your love in the Spirit.
9For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. 13For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, 14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
A quick note on the greeting - both the author and receiver are referred to as being of Jesus Christ and in Christ (v. 1). Before he begins Paul establishes what he always seeks to emphasize – our standing in Christ.
Paul and Timothy thank God ever since they heard of the fruits which the Colossian believers are displaying. They direct this thanks to God, for He is the source and it is He by His Holy Spirit indwelling these believers that these fruits are being born [Gal 5:22-23]. When we see good fruit do we praise our Father who is the source?
What specifically were they thanking God for? Paul and Timothy had heard of their faith, their love and thanked God for the provision of their hope in heaven. Paul has put these three together elsewhere in his writings [e.g. 1 Cor 13:13]. We have a hope laid up… in heaven (v. 5) [for a beautiful description see 1 Pet 1:3-5], provided for us by God. These Colossian saints have faith in Christ, and exhibit love… for the all the saints (v. 4). What a beautiful thing to behold in a group of believers! And for these things God is to be praised.
The hope which they have is found in the gospel, here called the word of truth (v. 5). What a beautiful name! Paul comments on the pattern which follows the preaching of the word, and in doing so encourages the Colossian believers that what they have seen in their lives is evidence of God at work. The gospel is said to be constantly bearing fruit and increasing ever since it is heard … and understood (v. 6). This is a good passage to look to when we are considering our own walk with the Lord.
2 Corinthians 13 [NASB]
5Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you--unless indeed you fail the test?
We are called here to examine ourselves, and Colossians is providing a standard - constant and increasing fruit since the day we heard and understood this word of truth. Christians sin, and are called to repent.
1 John 1
8If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us.
However, the Word is clear that there should be an evidence of fruit in a Christians’ life. Do we say we have faith in Christ Jesus? This should be accompanied by a love … for all the saints and a treasuring of the hope laid up for you in heaven (v. 4-5). Paul goes on to speak of this in chapter 3, that IF you have been raised you should/will seek the things above where Christ is.
Colossians 3
1Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. 3For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory.
The Colossian believers were in danger of adopting teachings in addition to those of Christ [see Col 2:16-23], and so Paul emphasizes even in these opening verses the sufficiency of the gospel. It is the word which you previously heard, which is accomplishing the same fruit in all the world also, and has been doing this since the day you heard of it (v. 5-6). The message you had at the start is not just something to be assented to and then moved on from. It is the foundation and the means of further building. It is THE word of truth (v. 5).
A quick note on Epaphras. He shared with Paul what he knew of this church and encouraged him with this news. Can we do more to encourage one another with news of God’s goodness in the lives of those around us? Some of the church at Colossae questioned the authority of Epaphras, and so Paul goes to great lengths here and in Col 4:12-13 to establish him as a faithful, godly brother. Paul points to Epaphras as part of the reason that they pray so fervently for these believers. Do we pray for those who perhaps disagree with us? Do we seek to encourage them even if there is an area of contention between us, knowing that we are all in Christ?
Then we have Paul and Timothy’s prayer. This is an absolutely incredible prayer, it is my favorite in the whole bible, and I fear that I will not be able to do it justice in this small blog. If you are able to also study it for yourself in your own time, or use it as a template for your own prayers I feel that there is great blessing here. I will examine some aspects of the prayer here, but will look at it in greater detail next time. I feel that it should be considered in light of verses 1-14, but also deserves much time and attention. As my good friend Trevor would say ‘we may not come this way again’ so lets spend the time getting into the text!
Paul was a praying man. For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that…(v. 9). This is unceasing prayer and petition, prayer being more general, and ‘asking’ being specific requests made. Other times when Paul uses this language are:
Romans 1
However, the Word is clear that there should be an evidence of fruit in a Christians’ life. Do we say we have faith in Christ Jesus? This should be accompanied by a love … for all the saints and a treasuring of the hope laid up for you in heaven (v. 4-5). Paul goes on to speak of this in chapter 3, that IF you have been raised you should/will seek the things above where Christ is.
Colossians 3
1Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. 3For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory.
The Colossian believers were in danger of adopting teachings in addition to those of Christ [see Col 2:16-23], and so Paul emphasizes even in these opening verses the sufficiency of the gospel. It is the word which you previously heard, which is accomplishing the same fruit in all the world also, and has been doing this since the day you heard of it (v. 5-6). The message you had at the start is not just something to be assented to and then moved on from. It is the foundation and the means of further building. It is THE word of truth (v. 5).
A quick note on Epaphras. He shared with Paul what he knew of this church and encouraged him with this news. Can we do more to encourage one another with news of God’s goodness in the lives of those around us? Some of the church at Colossae questioned the authority of Epaphras, and so Paul goes to great lengths here and in Col 4:12-13 to establish him as a faithful, godly brother. Paul points to Epaphras as part of the reason that they pray so fervently for these believers. Do we pray for those who perhaps disagree with us? Do we seek to encourage them even if there is an area of contention between us, knowing that we are all in Christ?
Then we have Paul and Timothy’s prayer. This is an absolutely incredible prayer, it is my favorite in the whole bible, and I fear that I will not be able to do it justice in this small blog. If you are able to also study it for yourself in your own time, or use it as a template for your own prayers I feel that there is great blessing here. I will examine some aspects of the prayer here, but will look at it in greater detail next time. I feel that it should be considered in light of verses 1-14, but also deserves much time and attention. As my good friend Trevor would say ‘we may not come this way again’ so lets spend the time getting into the text!
Paul was a praying man. For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that…(v. 9). This is unceasing prayer and petition, prayer being more general, and ‘asking’ being specific requests made. Other times when Paul uses this language are:
Romans 1
9 For God, whom I serve in my spirit in the preaching of the gospel of His Son, is my witness as to how unceasingly I make mention of you, 10always in my prayers making request, if perhaps now at last by the will of God I may succeed in coming to you.
Ephesians 1
15 For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints, 16do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers;
Philippians 1
I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all,
1 Thessalonians 1
2We give thanks to God always for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers; 3constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father,
2 Thessalonians 1
Ephesians 1
15 For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints, 16do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers;
Philippians 1
I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all,
1 Thessalonians 1
2We give thanks to God always for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers; 3constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father,
2 Thessalonians 1
11To this end also we pray for you always, that our God will count you worthy of your calling, and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power,
Philemon
4I thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers,
What an example for us to follow! What a convicting standard for us to compare ourselves with. Since the time he hears of a group of saints he prays for them, both alone and with others. He shares this with the subjects of his prayer and encourages them. He remembers them long after he first hears, and does not only pray for those who are sick or suffering. Are we guilty of only bringing certain people to the Lord? When we first studied this my husband and I looked at our prayer list and it consisted only of those who were having difficulty or were ill. But Paul here says for this reason also he prays (v. 9). What reason? He also informed us of your love in the Spirit (v. 8). Paul heard good reports, and so began to pray for them!
And what does he pray?
Colossians 1
Philemon
4I thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers,
What an example for us to follow! What a convicting standard for us to compare ourselves with. Since the time he hears of a group of saints he prays for them, both alone and with others. He shares this with the subjects of his prayer and encourages them. He remembers them long after he first hears, and does not only pray for those who are sick or suffering. Are we guilty of only bringing certain people to the Lord? When we first studied this my husband and I looked at our prayer list and it consisted only of those who were having difficulty or were ill. But Paul here says for this reason also he prays (v. 9). What reason? He also informed us of your love in the Spirit (v. 8). Paul heard good reports, and so began to pray for them!
And what does he pray?
Colossians 1
9For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. 13For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, 14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
What a list! What struck me when I first looked at this passage is that Paul aims high. He knows his God can and will accomplish these things in the Colossian saints, otherwise why pray for them? Paul believes it is possible to be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding (v. 9), to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects (v. 10), and to attain all steadfastness and patience (v. 11). Do we pray such lofty things for our fellow believers or have we settled for less? When we pray for someone to get well physically we need to submit this request to the Lord’s will and pray ‘yet Your will be done’. When we are praying for spiritual growth however we already know the Lord’s will – that we may be found to be in the likeness of Christ! Too often I find myself praying that someone may be strengthened a little more, that they may have a little more wisdom or knowledge of God. But here Paul takes our minds higher, points us to the power and might of God which accomplishes these things. The letter to the Colossians is very similar to the letter to the Ephesians, and we read there in a similar passage:
Ephesians 1
9and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might 20which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, 21far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.
What is our view of our Lord’s power and might? God raised Christ from the dead, saved us from our sins and has given us eternal life. He is mighty to accomplish these things in our life. For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins (v. 13-14).
What a God we serve! Let us aim high in our prayers for one another. Let us believe that God can accomplish these things in our lives. Let us consider ourselves to see whether we are bearing the fruit which accompanies the hearing and understanding of the word of truth. And if we find that we are in Christ let us always give thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light (v. 12).
A final word from Hudson Taylor – the man who believed God. “Do not have your concert first, and then tune your instrument afterwards. Begin the day with the Word of God and prayer, and get first of all into harmony with Him.”
May God bless you.Taliah.
What a list! What struck me when I first looked at this passage is that Paul aims high. He knows his God can and will accomplish these things in the Colossian saints, otherwise why pray for them? Paul believes it is possible to be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding (v. 9), to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects (v. 10), and to attain all steadfastness and patience (v. 11). Do we pray such lofty things for our fellow believers or have we settled for less? When we pray for someone to get well physically we need to submit this request to the Lord’s will and pray ‘yet Your will be done’. When we are praying for spiritual growth however we already know the Lord’s will – that we may be found to be in the likeness of Christ! Too often I find myself praying that someone may be strengthened a little more, that they may have a little more wisdom or knowledge of God. But here Paul takes our minds higher, points us to the power and might of God which accomplishes these things. The letter to the Colossians is very similar to the letter to the Ephesians, and we read there in a similar passage:
Ephesians 1
9and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might 20which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, 21far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.
What is our view of our Lord’s power and might? God raised Christ from the dead, saved us from our sins and has given us eternal life. He is mighty to accomplish these things in our life. For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins (v. 13-14).
What a God we serve! Let us aim high in our prayers for one another. Let us believe that God can accomplish these things in our lives. Let us consider ourselves to see whether we are bearing the fruit which accompanies the hearing and understanding of the word of truth. And if we find that we are in Christ let us always give thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light (v. 12).
A final word from Hudson Taylor – the man who believed God. “Do not have your concert first, and then tune your instrument afterwards. Begin the day with the Word of God and prayer, and get first of all into harmony with Him.”
May God bless you.Taliah.
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